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How to Fix QuickBooks Payroll Update Error 15222

· 5 min read
Debits

Introduction​

QuickBooks Payroll Update Error 15222 typically occurs when you attempt to download payroll updates in QuickBooks Desktop. This error is often caused by issues with internet connectivity, security settings, or outdated QuickBooks components. Fixing this error is essential to ensure that payroll updates are installed successfully, enabling you to manage employee payments accurately.

The error message usually states:
"Error 15222: QuickBooks Desktop Payroll update did not complete successfully."

This guide provides a step-by-step approach to resolving QuickBooks Payroll Update Error 15222.

Causes of QuickBooks Payroll Update Error 15222​

  1. Outdated QuickBooks Desktop Version: Using an outdated version can cause compatibility issues with payroll updates.
  2. Incorrect Internet Settings: Misconfigured internet settings may block QuickBooks from accessing the update server.
  3. Interference from Antivirus or Firewall: Security software may block the QuickBooks update process.
  4. Missing Digital Signatures: The absence of a valid digital signature on QuickBooks components can lead to this error.
  5. Incorrect SSL Configuration: SSL (Secure Socket Layer) settings may prevent payroll updates.

Symptoms of QuickBooks Payroll Update Error 15222​

  • The payroll update process fails to complete.
  • Error message: “Error 15222: QuickBooks Desktop Payroll update did not complete successfully.”
  • QuickBooks becomes unresponsive or crashes during the update process.
  • Payroll features stop functioning correctly after the failed update.

Steps to Fix QuickBooks Payroll Update Error 15222​

Step 1: Update QuickBooks Desktop to the Latest Release​

Ensuring that QuickBooks Desktop is up to date can prevent compatibility issues with payroll updates.

  1. Open QuickBooks Desktop:
    • Launch QuickBooks on your computer.
  2. Check for Updates:
    • Go to Help > Update QuickBooks Desktop.
    • Click the Update Now tab and select Get Updates.
  3. Install Updates:
    • Once the update is downloaded, restart QuickBooks and install the updates.
  4. Retry the Payroll Update:
    • Attempt to download the payroll update again.

Step 2: Verify and Add QuickBooks to Firewall Exceptions​

Firewall or antivirus software may block QuickBooks from connecting to the update server.

  1. Open Firewall Settings:
    • Go to Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall.
  2. Allow an App Through Firewall:
    • Click Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.
    • Add QuickBooks Desktop and its components (e.g., qbupdate.exe) to the list of allowed apps.
  3. Adjust Port Settings:
    • Allow ports 80 and 443 to enable QuickBooks to access the update server.
  4. Temporarily Disable Antivirus:
    • Open your antivirus program and disable it temporarily.
  5. Retry the Payroll Update:
    • Open QuickBooks and attempt the payroll update again.

Step 3: Check Internet Explorer Settings​

QuickBooks uses Internet Explorer (IE) settings for internet connectivity. Misconfigured settings may block updates.

  1. Open Internet Explorer:
    • Launch Internet Explorer on your computer.
  2. Check Internet Options:
    • Go to Tools > Internet Options > Connections.
    • Click LAN Settings and ensure that the Automatically Detect Settings checkbox is selected.
  3. Enable SSL:
    • Go to the Advanced tab and ensure that the Use SSL 2.0 and Use SSL 3.0 checkboxes are selected.
  4. Apply Changes:
    • Click Apply and OK to save the settings.
  5. Retry the Update:
    • Open QuickBooks and try downloading the payroll update.

Step 4: Verify Digital Signatures on QuickBooks Files​

QuickBooks requires valid digital signatures to complete payroll updates.

  1. Locate the File:
    • Navigate to the QuickBooks program folder (e.g., C:\Program Files (x86)\Intuit\QuickBooks).
  2. Check Digital Signature:
    • Right-click on the file qbupdate.exe and select Properties.
    • Go to the Digital Signatures tab and ensure Intuit is listed as the signer.
  3. Reapply Digital Signature:
    • Click Details > View Certificate > Install Certificate.
    • Follow the prompts to install the certificate.
  4. Retry the Update:
    • Open QuickBooks and attempt the payroll update.

Step 5: Use QuickBooks Tool Hub to Fix Installation Issues​

The QuickBooks Tool Hub includes diagnostic tools that can fix update-related errors.

  1. Download QuickBooks Tool Hub:
    • Visit Intuit’s official website and download the latest version of QuickBooks Tool Hub.
  2. Open Tool Hub:
    • Launch Tool Hub and navigate to the Program Problems tab.
  3. Run Quick Fix My Program:
    • Click Quick Fix My Program to resolve common program-related issues.
  4. Retry the Payroll Update:
    • Open QuickBooks and attempt the update again.

Step 6: Manually Download and Install Payroll Updates​

If the issue persists, manually downloading payroll updates can bypass certain errors.

  1. Visit the QuickBooks Update Page:
  2. Download the Update File:
    • Select the latest payroll update file for your QuickBooks version.
  3. Install the Update:
    • Follow the on-screen instructions to manually install the payroll update.
  4. Verify Payroll Functionality:
    • Open QuickBooks and confirm that payroll features are functioning correctly.

Additional Tips​

  • Backup Your Data: Always create a backup of your QuickBooks company file before performing updates or troubleshooting.
  • Keep Windows Updated: Ensure that your operating system is updated to avoid compatibility issues.
  • Use Administrative Privileges: Run QuickBooks Desktop as an administrator to avoid permission-related errors.

Conclusion​

QuickBooks Payroll Update Error 15222 can disrupt payroll operations, but it is manageable with the steps outlined in this guide. From updating QuickBooks Desktop to adjusting internet settings and verifying digital signatures, these solutions address the most common causes of the error.

If the issue persists, consider contacting QuickBooks Support or consulting a certified QuickBooks expert for further assistance.